Modeling and optimization of high-frequency ultrasound transducers

Obtaining an accurate transducer model for a high-frequency transducer can be troublesome using traditional models, such as the KLM model, since it is often difficult to measure precisely the piezoelectric, dielectric, and mechanical properties of the transducer. This paper describes an alternative method of modeling transducers using network theory. The network theory model for a transducer is determined from a measurement of the transducer impedance in water and the pulse-echo response of the system for a given electrical source and load. A discussion of how this model can be used to optimize the design of an electrical matching circuit is given. This method is illustrated by designing a two-element transmission line matching circuit for a miniature 53 MHz transducer. Excellent agreement between the network model prediction and the experimental response is obtained.<>